Why go
Look for Velázquez's Las Meninas and the work of El Greco, Ribera and Zurbarán to understand the Golden Age. Then follow the change in tone through Goya before turning to Picasso, Dalí, Gris and Miró. The contrast says more than a quick list of celebrated names.
The full story
Spanish art developed through changing political and cultural settings across several centuries. The Golden Age brought painters such as El Greco, José de Ribera and Francisco Zurbarán. Diego Velázquez's portraits, including Las Meninas, reward close attention to the relationship between the sitter, painter and viewer. Francisco Goya worked through an era of war and political conflict; his art offers a very different view of power and society. Later, Joaquín Sorolla became known for light and colour, while Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, Juan Gris and Joan Miró helped shape modern art. These artists did not share one visual language. Comparing their work across a museum visit reveals how each generation used painting to answer different questions about Spain and the wider world.